WiFi for Restuarants

Studies show that consumers expect WiFi in most public places. This is especially true for coffee shops and restaurants. But offering WiFi only is not enough for these kinds of businesses. There are three models that can be adopted while offering WiFi in coffee shops and restaurants: Free, Free of charge or a Hybrid.

A recent survey showed that:

· 65% of the participants own WiFi enabled devices for example smartphones, PDA or laptops

· WiFi access is one of the reasons for a customer to return to an establishment as long as it remains free.

According to these findings, cafes, coffee shops and restaurants can experience a positive return on investing in WiFi access especially if they are looking to attract customers from a specific demographic segment who use WiFi enabled devices.

The importance of WiFi in restaurants

Offering free WiFi access can benefit restaurant in a number of ways. Here are some highlights:

1. We are living in the Internet Age

We are living in the internet age. The internet is fast becoming part and parcel of our lives.. Smart phones are ubiquitous and we want to remain in touch with loved ones all the time. Anything which interferes with this balance is unacceptable. Do you know there are customers who cannot frequent a business premise simply because it does not offer wireless internet access.

2. Marketing

Enabling WiFi access in a restaurant can also market a place. In some cases, prospective clients use the WiFi locator on their phones to find nearby WiFi Hotspots. Listing the WiFi hotspot in your establishment will therefore add a marketing advantage to you.

3. Gain an upper hand

Most players in the hotel industry charge their guests an extra daily fee to access the internet. This upsets consumers especially the ones who need large volumes of data. If such guests got an option of free wireless internet access, they will immediately go for it.

Required Investment

The good thing with giving your customers free WiFi access is that it requires minimal investment. But just like any other aspect of investing in your business, there are some things which must be considered:

1. Get Proper Equipment

Because of security reasons, separate the WiFi access you will be offering from the restaurant’s business network. Take your time to conduct a thorough research to find the best places to buy the WiFi hardware. It may be necessary to seek expert help during the installation.

2. Let people know about WiFi

When the WiFi has been set up, ensure you make the most out of the feature. Rename your signal so that it leads people to your business. A good name can be “Ken’s Hotel-Free WiFi.” Mention that you have free WiFi in your premises and let this same information appear in your adverts.

3. Be internet friendly

Handle your customers well. Make sure there are enough outlets. The seating arrangement is also conducive. To increase turnover ratio, limit peak access to 60minutes.